A subject-verb agreement question tests whether the verb matches a subject that's one thing or more than one. First, sort the verb forms by number, even if their tenses differ. In the sentence with the blank, find the subject and cross out phrases that describe it. One thing takes forms like rings or has rung; more than one takes ring or have rung. A nearby noun inside a phrase isn't always the subject.
Hints
- Hint 1
Look at the sentence with the blank and ask what provides the poem's rhythm.
- Hint 2
Find the subject of the verb. Does it name one thing or more than one?
Step-by-step
Find the true subject
Step 1Sort by number
Sort the forms by testing them with they: they give, they are giving, and they have given all work, so these forms are plural. This is a subject-verb agreement question, so the verb must match its subject as one thing or more than one. What is giving the poem a strong, regular rhythm?
- Step 2
Set aside the describing phrase
The rhythm comes from The repeating pattern. What does of sounds add? It tells us what the pattern is made of, so we can cross out that phrase to bring the subject next to its verb. The pattern is the true subject; the sounds are part of the description, even though sounds sits closest to the blank.
- Step 3
Match the verb to one pattern
How many things does The repeating pattern name? It's one pattern, so use it in place of the subject and test the verb: it gives. One pattern takes a singular verb, which makes gives the form that agrees with this subject. Choice B.